So, after sending the email to Amazon, I promptly received a reply. They expressed their disappointment about the whole experience and gave me a 30% off credit, amounting to around $6. That's fine, I thought. I wasn't looking for money, but it was a nice response.
The man who replied to my email seemed very heartfelt and sympathetic. His words made me feel somewhat special, though I'm sure I'm one of many who complain about their orders.
So, the point of these segments were to explain that customer service goes a long way. Remaining nice, sweet, and patient wins you customers in the event of a mishap that is, quite frankly, out of your control.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
The Importance of Customer Service: Part 1
Recently I have been dealing with a customer service issue with Amazon.com. My dad's birthday is on Tuesday and he had sent me an Amazon wishlist with some books and DVD's that he would like. So, I ordered them. Two of the items were from Amazon itself, while the third was from a seller within the Amazon community.
A couple days later, I receive an email from Amazon informing me that my package of two items would be sent separately, as one item was not yet able to be shipped. They also wrote that it would be of no cost to me. No problem, I thought.
Today, I received one item. Every time I have purchased an item from Amazon, I've received it nicely package in a cardboard box to keep the item from being damaged. It was not the case this time. I received the item, a 440 page book, in a brown paper envelope. I opened it to find the corners bent and damaged from mailing.
While I understand that it is not Amazon's fault that the book and envelope went through rough mailing, it IS Amazon's responsibility to use protective packaging. I sent an email to Amazon's customer service expressing my disappointment and anger.
Let me know about your experiences. As a seller, have you ever sent an item that ended up getting damaged in the mail? What did you do? As a buy, have you ever received an item that was damaged? What did you do?
Part II will follow in the next few days as this issue is corrected!
A couple days later, I receive an email from Amazon informing me that my package of two items would be sent separately, as one item was not yet able to be shipped. They also wrote that it would be of no cost to me. No problem, I thought.
Today, I received one item. Every time I have purchased an item from Amazon, I've received it nicely package in a cardboard box to keep the item from being damaged. It was not the case this time. I received the item, a 440 page book, in a brown paper envelope. I opened it to find the corners bent and damaged from mailing.
While I understand that it is not Amazon's fault that the book and envelope went through rough mailing, it IS Amazon's responsibility to use protective packaging. I sent an email to Amazon's customer service expressing my disappointment and anger.
Let me know about your experiences. As a seller, have you ever sent an item that ended up getting damaged in the mail? What did you do? As a buy, have you ever received an item that was damaged? What did you do?
Part II will follow in the next few days as this issue is corrected!
Changes!
So, as you can, see I updated my blog layout! What do you think? I'm loved the old one, but I feel like this is more eye-friendly. Let me know what your opinions are! Also, I wanted to update the banner to match the one in my PinkSunrise store. I really need to start creating a cohesive brand a bit better.
I also got a twitter! You can see it at http://twitter.com/shoppinksunrise. Please follow me and I'll return the favor!
I'll write a longer post a bit later. I'm still in bed at the moment!
Audrey
http://pinksunrise.etsy.com
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Snow in March
Today is the first day of March! Only 26 days til my birthday!
I had a wonderful day today. My best friend and I went to the Annapolis Warehouse Sale downtown today and loaded up on tons of goodies. At 75% off original prices, it was too hard to pass up. I spent $100 and got quite a nice loot:
I absolutely love sales! It was a bit crazy, women were either undressing in the middle of the space or fighting for space between a clothing rack and a wall. But it was definitely worth it and I hope
to go in the fall if I'm not at college yet.
So, my bragging is over. Well, not quite. Tonight, Annapolis is covered in a layer of snow that has been falling since about 3 pm. Schools have already been canceled, so I'm planning my day tomorrow. I really want to start crafting again, but I've been so overwhelmed with school, friends, family, boyfriend, college, etc.
Also, I'm sure everyone's been watching MadeByHank. In the past few days she has sold over 100 items as a result of becoming the Featured Seller. I'm sure she is quite overjoyed AND overwhelmed, but it must be so fun! Congratulations!
I'll leave by posting one of my favorite "snow" items. It is supposed to be spring in three weeks, but until then I guess I'll have to love the snow while its here.
This soap must be so wonderful to smooth over dry, wintry skin in a warm shower or bath!
$10 from SugarCandieBeauty
I had a wonderful day today. My best friend and I went to the Annapolis Warehouse Sale downtown today and loaded up on tons of goodies. At 75% off original prices, it was too hard to pass up. I spent $100 and got quite a nice loot:
- Pair of navy cords from Free People. Originally $68, I got them for $28. Saved $40!
- Two Honeydew fruit thongs. Originally $9 each, I got each for $3. Saved $12!
- One black and grey KensieGirl skirt. Originally $58, I got it for $15. Saved $43!
- One white KensieGirl shirt with ruffles. Originally $38, I got it for $10. Saved $28!
- And lastly, one Free People blue flowered dress. Originally $135, I got it for $38. Saved $97!
I absolutely love sales! It was a bit crazy, women were either undressing in the middle of the space or fighting for space between a clothing rack and a wall. But it was definitely worth it and I hope
to go in the fall if I'm not at college yet.
So, my bragging is over. Well, not quite. Tonight, Annapolis is covered in a layer of snow that has been falling since about 3 pm. Schools have already been canceled, so I'm planning my day tomorrow. I really want to start crafting again, but I've been so overwhelmed with school, friends, family, boyfriend, college, etc.
Also, I'm sure everyone's been watching MadeByHank. In the past few days she has sold over 100 items as a result of becoming the Featured Seller. I'm sure she is quite overjoyed AND overwhelmed, but it must be so fun! Congratulations!
I'll leave by posting one of my favorite "snow" items. It is supposed to be spring in three weeks, but until then I guess I'll have to love the snow while its here.
This soap must be so wonderful to smooth over dry, wintry skin in a warm shower or bath!$10 from SugarCandieBeauty
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Ribbons, ribbons, ribbons!
I have quite a few ribbons in my store as I destash and try to get rid of a bunch of things I don't use.
For you sewers out there, I have a gorgeous red, white, blue, and silver flower pattern ribbon. Sew it to a pin cushion, clothing, bag, anything! It's really quite adorable. Yours for only one dollar!
For you sewers out there, I have a gorgeous red, white, blue, and silver flower pattern ribbon. Sew it to a pin cushion, clothing, bag, anything! It's really quite adorable. Yours for only one dollar!
For the scrapbookers, card-makers, and giftwrappers, there is a listing for some glittery fun holiday ribbon. It doesn't have to be used in the holiday season, however! Check out this duo set for only $3.50!
If you love to add an extra flair to your packages, get this patterned yellow raffia. Only $1.50, it will add an adorable flair to your customer's gifts that they will remember at a minimal price!
If you love to add an extra flair to your packages, get this patterned yellow raffia. Only $1.50, it will add an adorable flair to your customer's gifts that they will remember at a minimal price!Monday, February 23, 2009
College
I'm leaving for college at the end of this summer and I am nervous as anything. Leaving my family, animals, and queen size bed to live with someone I don't know in a small room with a bunk bed... spare me! What will I do?
Well, of course, my mind goes straight to the issue of clothing. I have worn a uniform to school for the past 7 years. I don't know what I am going to do when I can wear a different outfit everyday! I've been perusing Etsy and found some great clothing designers and vintage sellers.
I'm also on the lookout for a great bag for books and a laptop. Apparently backpacks are worn by the "dorky" girls, but my view is that there is nothing wrong with that! Anyway, I want one with a large zipper for closure. I've had bags that close with a magnetic snap but my things always fall out and dirt somehow always finds its way in. I also want a few inner pockets for my phone and a calculator or something. I'm looking for a navy blue or black, something simple that will match almost anything. And, most importantly, I want a cute shape.
I'd also like a new wallet. I'm hoping to get my own credit card for only a few small purchases so that I will be able to build my credit score, slowly yet steadily. I know that college students are a credit card company's dream customer, but I promise I won't succumb to debt!
That's what I need for now. Ready for my top picks?
Vintage Soft Baby Doll Bell Sleeve Mini Dress by leasvintage
$25
This mini dress would be SO cute over jeans. It is something different from what I could buy at a mall. I would wear this to study in the library, go out with some friends, or just lounge around the dorms!
The Market Bag in Provincial Blue by moop
$93
This bag is perfect for carrying around campus. It will fit my laptop, a textbook, and will look so fashionable!
Wallet in Mulberry Spade Damask by LBaccessories
$35
Well, of course, my mind goes straight to the issue of clothing. I have worn a uniform to school for the past 7 years. I don't know what I am going to do when I can wear a different outfit everyday! I've been perusing Etsy and found some great clothing designers and vintage sellers.
I'm also on the lookout for a great bag for books and a laptop. Apparently backpacks are worn by the "dorky" girls, but my view is that there is nothing wrong with that! Anyway, I want one with a large zipper for closure. I've had bags that close with a magnetic snap but my things always fall out and dirt somehow always finds its way in. I also want a few inner pockets for my phone and a calculator or something. I'm looking for a navy blue or black, something simple that will match almost anything. And, most importantly, I want a cute shape.
I'd also like a new wallet. I'm hoping to get my own credit card for only a few small purchases so that I will be able to build my credit score, slowly yet steadily. I know that college students are a credit card company's dream customer, but I promise I won't succumb to debt!
That's what I need for now. Ready for my top picks?
Vintage Soft Baby Doll Bell Sleeve Mini Dress by leasvintage$25
This mini dress would be SO cute over jeans. It is something different from what I could buy at a mall. I would wear this to study in the library, go out with some friends, or just lounge around the dorms!
The Market Bag in Provincial Blue by moop$93
This bag is perfect for carrying around campus. It will fit my laptop, a textbook, and will look so fashionable!
Wallet in Mulberry Spade Damask by LBaccessories$35
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Etsy Seller of the Week:
Hello everyone! This week's Seller of the Week is MarissaB. She creates gorgeous bracelets, rings, and necklaces out of beautiful gemstones. Looking for a gift for a friend or yourself? Head straight to MarissaB!
1.Tell us about yourself and your store. What do you make?
My line of jewelry, Marissa B., is entirely handmade. From my design studio in Boston, I design and create the jewelry that is showcased in many galleries and boutiques throughout the country. The jewelry tha
t comes from the Marissa B. studio is made of high quality materials including sterling silver, gold vermeil and precious and semiprecious gemstones. Marissa B. artisan handmade jewelry is the pairing of semiprecious gemstones and precious metals with an eye for exquisite color and texture combinations. Since 2002 I've been offering a new perspective on fashion jewelry by creating a collection of earrings, bracelets and necklaces that reflect the modern aesthetic. From my Boston based studio, each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans working with the finest quality of materials. Every design that adorns our discerning clientele is made with care. Whether you crave a simple line or a bold statement, Marissa B. jewelry satisfies every sophisticated taste.
2.What inspires you?
I gather my inspiration for my jewelry designs from many sources. The vibrancy of the city, the harmony of nature and the complexities of the human spirit combined with a zest for color and form inspires my creative energies. I love looking at home decor and runway styles to get ideas for shape and form. I also love just going to the market and looking at all the fresh fruits and veggies (even fresh fish!) to get inspired for color and unexpected combinations.
3.When did you start your business? Was Etsy your first venue?
I started my business in 2002 selling wholesale to stores. Etsy is a recent venture to sell my work direct from my studio. It's a great feeling to sell direct and spend that extra attention to packaging and include that personal touch.
4.Do you sell on any other venues? Where can we find you?
I sell to a variety of boutiques and galleries worldwide. I've also sold to retalers including the Neiman Marcus catalogue, Henri Bendel, Von Maur and Garnet Hill catalogue. My favorite store are ones that are local and where I've developed friendships with the owners. In Boston the boutique, Shake The Tree is my absolute favorite store to sell my work in and shop!
5.Do you plan on selling full time at any point?
I am already selling full time. My wholesale business has kept me busy working exclusively at my business for the past four years. I'm just starting to connect to the marketplace directly by offering my designs for sale on Etsy.
6.What tips do you have for new sellers? Any advice?
My advice it to take great photos of your work and brand your product effectively.
7.Think up a question – and answer it!
Question: Why do you create?
Answer: When I design I am motivated by the chance I have each day to create, express and innovate. As an artist, I experience creating as a constant process of discovery and invention and I am very grateful for this.
8.Anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to say how thankful I am to all the friends, family, business associates and artists who have guided me, given me their advice, their wisdom and encouragement. Being an entrepreneur and artist can feel like a contradiction at times, but ultimately I find the harmony between the two. It's crucial to balance the business and creative elements of this endeavor and it's an honest effort and belief in my work that helps me achieve it.
(Pictured: Rock Candy Tangerine Bracelet and Pearl Ball Drop Earrings)
Visit Marissa at MarissaB for more of her striking jewelry!
1.Tell us about yourself and your store. What do you make?
My line of jewelry, Marissa B., is entirely handmade. From my design studio in Boston, I design and create the jewelry that is showcased in many galleries and boutiques throughout the country. The jewelry tha
t comes from the Marissa B. studio is made of high quality materials including sterling silver, gold vermeil and precious and semiprecious gemstones. Marissa B. artisan handmade jewelry is the pairing of semiprecious gemstones and precious metals with an eye for exquisite color and texture combinations. Since 2002 I've been offering a new perspective on fashion jewelry by creating a collection of earrings, bracelets and necklaces that reflect the modern aesthetic. From my Boston based studio, each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans working with the finest quality of materials. Every design that adorns our discerning clientele is made with care. Whether you crave a simple line or a bold statement, Marissa B. jewelry satisfies every sophisticated taste.2.What inspires you?
I gather my inspiration for my jewelry designs from many sources. The vibrancy of the city, the harmony of nature and the complexities of the human spirit combined with a zest for color and form inspires my creative energies. I love looking at home decor and runway styles to get ideas for shape and form. I also love just going to the market and looking at all the fresh fruits and veggies (even fresh fish!) to get inspired for color and unexpected combinations.
3.When did you start your business? Was Etsy your first venue?
I started my business in 2002 selling wholesale to stores. Etsy is a recent venture to sell my work direct from my studio. It's a great feeling to sell direct and spend that extra attention to packaging and include that personal touch.
4.Do you sell on any other venues? Where can we find you?
I sell to a variety of boutiques and galleries worldwide. I've also sold to retalers including the Neiman Marcus catalogue, Henri Bendel, Von Maur and Garnet Hill catalogue. My favorite store are ones that are local and where I've developed friendships with the owners. In Boston the boutique, Shake The Tree is my absolute favorite store to sell my work in and shop!
5.Do you plan on selling full time at any point?
I am already selling full time. My wholesale business has kept me busy working exclusively at my business for the past four years. I'm just starting to connect to the marketplace directly by offering my designs for sale on Etsy.
6.What tips do you have for new sellers? Any advice?
My advice it to take great photos of your work and brand your product effectively.
7.Think up a question – and answer it!
Question: Why do you create?
Answer: When I design I am motivated by the chance I have each day to create, express and innovate. As an artist, I experience creating as a constant process of discovery and invention and I am very grateful for this.
8.Anything else you'd like to share?
I would like to say how thankful I am to all the friends, family, business associates and artists who have guided me, given me their advice, their wisdom and encouragement. Being an entrepreneur and artist can feel like a contradiction at times, but ultimately I find the harmony between the two. It's crucial to balance the business and creative elements of this endeavor and it's an honest effort and belief in my work that helps me achieve it.
(Pictured: Rock Candy Tangerine Bracelet and Pearl Ball Drop Earrings)
Visit Marissa at MarissaB for more of her striking jewelry!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
A little bit about me!
I know I've only just started this blog, but I thought I should introduce myself a bit more than I already have.
My love for Etsy started in the summer of 2006 when my best friend and I launched our business, Sugar in the Morning. We knit these adorable pouches and cellphone cozies. We actually sold quite a few items and had begun to have a sort of following. Unfortunately, we had to stop SITM because it was too hard to manage our growing business while dealing with school and such.
Last summer, I reopened by myself under the name, Pink Sunrise. I had barely started accumulating some traffic when personal issues came up, forcing me to close a business once again. I'm back now, selling supplies. I don't have as much time to knit, so, for the moment, I'm selling off some excess supplies that I need to get rid of before I leave for college in the fall.
I love to knit and sew. A few years ago I went through a faze where I tried to learn how to make clothes. I bought myself a sewing machine, fabric, and thread and got to it. It didn't work out so well at the time, but I would love to try again. Maybe in the next few months, I'll learn!
I also love felt. Love, love, love felt! It is so much fun to sew with because it doesn't fray and you can make such adorable items. I have been playing around with it a lot recently, and cannot wait to actually make something! You guys will be the first to see it!
Anyway, enough about me! Let me know a little about you!
Audrey
pinksunrise.etsy.com
My love for Etsy started in the summer of 2006 when my best friend and I launched our business, Sugar in the Morning. We knit these adorable pouches and cellphone cozies. We actually sold quite a few items and had begun to have a sort of following. Unfortunately, we had to stop SITM because it was too hard to manage our growing business while dealing with school and such.
Last summer, I reopened by myself under the name, Pink Sunrise. I had barely started accumulating some traffic when personal issues came up, forcing me to close a business once again. I'm back now, selling supplies. I don't have as much time to knit, so, for the moment, I'm selling off some excess supplies that I need to get rid of before I leave for college in the fall.
I love to knit and sew. A few years ago I went through a faze where I tried to learn how to make clothes. I bought myself a sewing machine, fabric, and thread and got to it. It didn't work out so well at the time, but I would love to try again. Maybe in the next few months, I'll learn!
I also love felt. Love, love, love felt! It is so much fun to sew with because it doesn't fray and you can make such adorable items. I have been playing around with it a lot recently, and cannot wait to actually make something! You guys will be the first to see it!
Anyway, enough about me! Let me know a little about you!
Audrey
pinksunrise.etsy.com
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Valentine's Day!
Happy Valentine's Day everybody! I hope yours has gone as well as mine. My boyfriend gave me a delicious mix of Sweetart Conversation Hearts and Hershey Milk Chocolate bars. My secret pleasure is to melt milk chocolate in the microwave and then dip Sweetarts in it. Everyone thinks its really gross and all that, but I love it. Whenever I feel upset or in need of comfort food, I beeline straight to Rite Aid to get my fix. Make sure not to burn the chocolate!
Moving on, my usual perusing through Etsy revealed really cute picks today! These items can be used all year round when you are feeling especially cheery and romantic!
Moving on, my usual perusing through Etsy revealed really cute picks today! These items can be used all year round when you are feeling especially cheery and romantic!
Felt Heart Valentine's Day Brooch in Blue, Light Pink, or Hot Pink by onecozynest
$6
Pink Valentine Owl Pincushion by rabbitsmoon
$18
Ivory Hearts Cup Sleeve by gabriellamistral
$7
Robot iPod Gadget Case by NORMandLOU
$5.50
$6
Pink Valentine Owl Pincushion by rabbitsmoon$18
Ivory Hearts Cup Sleeve by gabriellamistral$7
Robot iPod Gadget Case by NORMandLOU$5.50
Still on a lookout for that great bag. I've accumulated a few favorites though!
Love,
Audrey
P.S. Have a great blog? I'm on the lookout for blogs to follow! Leave a comment or follow me and I'll check out your blog. Thanks!
Love,
Audrey
P.S. Have a great blog? I'm on the lookout for blogs to follow! Leave a comment or follow me and I'll check out your blog. Thanks!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
On the Lookout: A Ring!
Who are your favorite jewelry artists? I'm on the lookout for a ring.
Last summer, my grandparents bought me a beautiful ring with an aquamarine stone (my birthstone!) and gold band. It was about a size 7 and my ring size is a size 5.5, so obviously it didn't fit. This Christmas I finally got around to getting it resized, and now I LOVE it. I wear it all the time and I can't wait to start adding to my ring collection. Rings are definitely my favorite accessory! So, I decided to peruse Etsy for some nice rings. Of course, I found a few artists whose styles fit me perfectly. My favorite one was BloomStudios. Her simple yet sophisticated style suit me perfectly, and I love the gems she chooses! Here are my favorite rings:
Sweet Rain Stacking Ring Set - 14k Gold and Aquamarines
$265
Visit BloomStudios to see more gorgeous jewelery!
Last summer, my grandparents bought me a beautiful ring with an aquamarine stone (my birthstone!) and gold band. It was about a size 7 and my ring size is a size 5.5, so obviously it didn't fit. This Christmas I finally got around to getting it resized, and now I LOVE it. I wear it all the time and I can't wait to start adding to my ring collection. Rings are definitely my favorite accessory! So, I decided to peruse Etsy for some nice rings. Of course, I found a few artists whose styles fit me perfectly. My favorite one was BloomStudios. Her simple yet sophisticated style suit me perfectly, and I love the gems she chooses! Here are my favorite rings:
Sweet Rain Stacking Ring Set - 14k Gold and Aquamarines
$265
Visit BloomStudios to see more gorgeous jewelery!
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Etsy Seller of the Week: MoonofGlass
Hello everyone! Today marks the first Etsy seller interview (of many I hope!) Meet Elizabeth of Moonofglass. Elizabeth make beautiful pendants out of fused glass. Read her interview to learn more about her and her Etsy business!
1. Tell us about yourself and your store. What do you make?
My name's Elizabeth, and I make fused glass jewelry and home decor items. I sell these under the studio name Moon of Glass.
2. What inspires you?
I often find inspiration in nature. I also absolutely love glass. I can pick up an unusual piece of glass have these great ideas. The play of light and color in glass is amazing - I often feel like I'm creating with light itself.
3. When did you start your business? Was Etsy your first venue?
Well, I sold at some craft shows and in a few local stores before I discovered Etsy. I opened my business two years ago, and started out selling mosaics and stained glass. About a year ago, I discovered fusing, and fell in love! At the end of October 2008, I opened up shop on Etsy.
4. Do you sell on any other venues? Where can we find you?
I don't sell anywhere else online, yet. I've been debating about looking into other places, but Etsy is about all I can keep up with right now! I do have my own website (http://www.moonofglass.com) but I don't have much set up on it yet.
5. Do you plan on selling full time at any point?
That's my dream! I work full time now at Vanderbilt University. I'll stay there for a few more years, most likely, and pay down some debt... I owe a lot from grad school. I'd like to continue to build up my business in the mean time. Then, once the debts are paid off, I'll quit my day job and work full time on what I love!
6. What tips do you have for new sellers? Any advice?
Pictures are the most important thing for selling online. Learn to take excellent pictures. After that, the key is promotion. You've got to get the word out!
7. Think up a question - and answer it!
Let's see - something that would have been helpful for me when I first started selling would be some hints at pricing. I've found my best selling price point is between $15-$25.
8. Anything else you'd like to share?
My motto - do what you love and the rest will follow. I strongly believe this to be true.
Visit Elizabeth at MoonofGlass to see more of her beautiful items! Thank you!
Monday, February 9, 2009
New! Tan and Asian Ribbon Set!
I just uploaded a new ribbon set to Pink Sunrise! I paired two ribbons together to create this set. One is a simple tan color, while the other is a really cool asian inspired flower print in red, blue, and purple on white. These types of ribbon are great for making headbands or adding as trim to any sewing project.
Only $2 and its yours!
In other news, I plan on updating this blog much more often! Look forward to shop interviews, tips and tricks, and more fun things like that!
Audrey
Friday, February 6, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Re-Opening!
Hello Everybody!
Pink Sunrise will be reopening in the next week or so. It will be filled with different craft supplies that I have been storing over the years. I may even list products that I made but never sold! Who knows! I hope this blog will also be a showcase for my favorite items and sellers on Etsy, as well and eco-friendly tips and tricks.
Audrey
Pink Sunrise will be reopening in the next week or so. It will be filled with different craft supplies that I have been storing over the years. I may even list products that I made but never sold! Who knows! I hope this blog will also be a showcase for my favorite items and sellers on Etsy, as well and eco-friendly tips and tricks.
Audrey
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